Tire Blowout Causes and Prevention

OMAHA, Nebraska. ABC News reports that authorities believe that a tire blowout may have been the cause of the recent devastating Greyhound bus crash that left 8 dead and another twenty five injured. Reports indicate that when the semi-truck’s tire blew, the driver lost control of the vehicle, veering into a median. It broke through the median, crashing head-on with the Greyhound bus. Victims in the accident suffered spinal cord injuries, head trauma, and other serious injuries requiring hospitalization. At least three children were hospitalized.

Tire blowouts, especially when they involve larger vehicles, can be incredibly deadly, but they can be easily prevented with proper vehicle maintenance. What are the most common causes of tire blowouts? According to Popular Mechanics, tire blowout season runs mid-May through the end of October, where heat can play a role in tire failure. Yet, tire blowouts can happen year-round, and trucks can be especially at risk. Here are the three major causes of tire failure and blowout:

• Underinflated Tires: When a tire is underinflated, it can cause the tire to warp as you drive on it. The heated and warped areas can eventually break. Check your tire pressure before any long drive and regularly check your tire pressure, especially in the summer and during seasonal changes. The heavier loads you are carrying, the greater the risk that underinflated tires bring. Heavier loads will cause the tires to warp more dramatically.
• Overloaded Vehicles. Trucks are particularly at risk of being overloaded. Truck companies might try to cut corners by asking drivers to carry extra weight. While truck companies are required to abide by laws limiting their loads, some companies may try to bend the rules. Pickup truck owners can also run the risk of tire blowout by putting more weight than their truck can carry in their truck’s flatbed. Check the weight limits as set by law and as set by truck manufacturers and follow them. Families loading their cars to go on summer vacations or people doing cross-country moves without checking their tires can also be at risk.
• Wear and Tear. Potholes and other road hazards can damage tires, either by causing small leaks or by leading to sudden blowouts. Check your tires regularly and change your tires if they are damage or worn. Check your tire treads regularly to ensure that you have adequate tread depth.

While any tire blowout can be dangerous, truck tire blowouts are among the most hazardous. Tire blowouts can lead to loss of control of a vehicle, leading to accidents and injuries. If you or a loved one was hurt in a truck or car accident in Omaha, Nebraska, reach out to the personal injury lawyers at Rensch & Rensch Law. Our firm can review the circumstances of your crash and may be able to help you seek damages for your pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical expenses. Visit us at https://www.renschandrensch.com/ to learn more.

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